UNG Newsroom

International Fraud Prevention Week Nov. 16-20

The University of North Georgia (UNG) is participating in International Fraud Prevention Week with a reminder to the campus community of its various ethics and anti-fraud methods.

An ethics and compliance reporting hotline and website has been established to report violations of state and federal law, as well as violations of the University System of Georgia (USG) policies. Concerned members of the staff, faculty and student body should report issues regarding unprofessional practices of fraud, waste, abuse, and any other improper, unprofessional, or illegal activity.

"It is up to all of us to create a more ethical culture here at UNG," said Jill Holman, UNG’s director of internal audit. “By creating the hotline and website, we are striving to promote the highest standards in professional conduct and providing a safe and confidential reporting option."

A 2014 study found that the median loss per fraud case was $145,000. By establishing these reporting methods, USG aims to limit the types of malfeasance that directly affects stewardship responsibilities through its SPIRIT of USG initiative. The campaign is focused on stewardship, prevention, integrity, responsibility, inspiration, and trust.

Among the many common examples of ethical violations and workplace fraud across corporate and educational institutions are claiming sick leave to take care of personal business, misappropriation of student fees and assets, and grading or evaluating unfairly due to friendship, organizational membership, or participation in collegiate athletics.

As with any learning institution, representing the intellectual ideas of others as your own is one of the points of emphasis that should be reported, as well as illegally downloading copyrighted material, such as music, books, videos, and software.

All reports made to the UNG hotline will be treated in an ethical and professional manner. Those making reports can choose to identify themselves or remain anonymous. However, neither the hotline nor website should be used as a tool to harass, embarrass or undermine co-workers or supervisors as retribution. Anyone knowingly filing a false report may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Reports can be made on-line at ung.alertline.com, or by calling 877-516-3461.